Mango Coconut Pasta Salad

Name: Mango Coconut Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g pasta (fusilli or penne); 1 large ripe mango, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 cup coconut milk; Juice of 2 limes; 1 tablespoon honey (or agave syrup); Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: International Taste Journey

I absolutely love this Mango Coconut Pasta Salad! It's a refreshing dish that combines the sweetness of ripe mangoes with the creaminess of coconut milk, creating a tropical escape with every bite. The textures are delightful, from the tender pasta to the crunchy vegetables. I often prepare it for summer gatherings or simply to brighten up a weekday meal. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, making it a go-to recipe when I need something delicious in under 30 minutes. Trust me, you won’t be able to get enough of this vibrant salad!

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2026-02-15T15:54:18.472Z

When I first tried making Mango Coconut Pasta Salad, I was amazed at how the flavors came together so beautifully. The creamy coconut milk mixed with fresh lime juice made a dressing that perfectly complemented sweet mango chunks. It’s important to use ripe mangoes for that melt-in-your-mouth texture. The combination of ingredients reminded me of tropical vacations, and I couldn’t help but dream of warm sandy beaches while enjoying this salad.

During my last picnic, this salad was a total hit! I added a handful of chopped mint that elevated the flavor even further. I recommend tossing it just before serving to keep everything fresh and delicious. The bright colors and refreshing taste turned what could have been a simple meal into a showstopper!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Sweet mangoes pair perfectly with creamy coconut for a delightful contrast
Light yet filling, making it an ideal dish for summer days
Bright colors and tropical flavors that transport you to a beach vacation

The Perfect Pasta for Your Salad

When selecting pasta for this Mango Coconut Pasta Salad, I recommend using fusilli or penne. These shapes hold the dressing well, ensuring each bite is flavorful. Aim for al dente texture, cooking the pasta just until it's tender but still has a slight bite—usually around 8 to 10 minutes on a gentle boil. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy, allowing it to complement the fresh ingredients beautifully.

After draining the pasta, rinsing it under cold water is an essential step. This not only halts the cooking process but also cools the pasta down, which prevents it from clumping together. By using a colander to shake off excess water, you prepare the pasta to better absorb the salad dressing, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Emphasizing Fresh Ingredients

The vibrancy of this salad relies heavily on fresh ingredients, especially the mango. Look for a ripe mango that gives slightly when gently pressed; this ensures optimal sweetness and a juicy texture. If mangoes aren't in season, consider using perfectly ripe peaches or even diced pineapple for a similar tropical note without losing the integrity of the dish.

In addition to the mango, incorporating fresh herbs like cilantro and crunch from vegetables like cucumber and bell pepper adds layers of flavor and texture. Don't skip the finely chopped red onion; its sharpness adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the other ingredients and can enhance the overall freshness of the salad.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious salad:

Salad Ingredients

200g pasta (fusilli or penne)
1 large ripe mango, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

1 cup coconut milk
Juice of 2 limes
1 tablespoon honey (or agave syrup)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best taste.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Mango Coconut Pasta Salad:

Cook the Pasta

In a pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Prepare the Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, lime juice, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, mango, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, and cilantro. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Serve

Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Your refreshing Mango Coconut Pasta Salad is now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of chili flakes to spice up the salad. Also, feel free to substitute seasonal vegetables as per your preference!

Customizing the Dressing

This Coconut Lime Dressing can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a sweeter profile, increase the honey or substitute with maple syrup. For a spicier kick, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha can elevate the flavor without overpowering the tropical notes. Be careful when mixing; whisk until smooth and glossy, which will ensure an even coating on the salad.

If you're looking to lighten up the dressing, consider using light coconut milk or yogurt in place of the full-fat version. This will still impart a lovely creaminess while reducing the overall calorie count. Just remember, the lighter the dressing, the faster it may incorporate into the salad, so toss right before serving to keep the textures intact.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

This Mango Coconut Pasta Salad is perfect for meal prep! If you decide to make it ahead, store the salad and the dressing separately to maintain the freshness of the ingredients. The salad can last for about 2 days in the fridge, but the flavors may become more pronounced over time. To serve, simply drizzle the dressing and toss the salad to revitalize it before enjoying.

For a delightful presentation, consider serving the salad in halved avocado shells or crisp lettuce cups. Not only does this add an appealing visual element, but it also provides an additional creamy texture that complements the dish. Pairing it with grilled shrimp or diced chicken can turn this refreshing salad into a hearty main course, perfect for summer cookouts or casual gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead. Just add the dressing right before serving to keep the ingredients crisp.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, but keep the dressing separate until serving.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Any short pasta like fusilli, penne, or even orzo works well. Just ensure it's cooked al dente for the best texture.

→ Can I use frozen mango instead of fresh?

Yes, but thaw it first and drain any excess liquid to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.